Northbrook Court Dental Associates Offers Drill-less Air Abrasion Dental Care

Northbrook, Illinois - Northbrook Court Dental Associates, a long time Northbrook dental clinic, has announced it now offers air abrasion, a new technique for removing tooth decay without the use of a drill.

“Because air abrasion produces significantly less heat, pressure, sound and vibration than a standard dental drill, patients experience much less discomfort,” says Dr. Michael Vold, D.D.S., J.D. “The technology can also be used without anesthetics.”

The air abrasion instrument works like a sandblaster. It uses compressed air or gas to emit a continuous stream of tiny particles made from silica, aluminum oxide or a baking soda mixture. When directed at the decaying part of the tooth, the particles quickly and efficiently strip away the decay. The decay is removed from the month with suctioning from a thin tube.

Some form of eye protection is usually necessary to prevent irritation. A rubber dam may also be needed to protect teeth that aren’t being treated.

Air abrasion is a safe and effective alternative to drilling. Not only does it minimize the possibility of fracturing or chipping a tooth, several areas of decay can be treated during one visit and a greater amount of healthy tooth tissue remains following the procedure. Air abrasion also keeps the mouth drier, which is beneficial for other procedures.

Air abrasion works extremely well when treating small cavities and to prepare teeth for composites. The technique can also be used to remove surface stains and tooth discolorations, repair cracks or chips, prepare a tooth surface for bonding or sealants, and to remove older restorations, crowns and bridges.

Compared to regular drills, the air abrasion is a good alternative for children, the elderly and patients who are nervous and fearful during dental procedures.

For more information on air abrasion dental care, or more information on their Northbrook dental care or about cosmetic dentistry, visit the Northbrook Court Dental Associates website at http://www.northbrookcourtdental.com, or call the office today at 847-272-2900.

About

Dr. Michael Vold has a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Wisconsin (1963), a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Northwestern University Dental School (1967) and a Juris Doctor degree from DePaul University College of Law (1980). He served as a dentist in the U.S. Air Force and taught as an Assistant Professor at the University of Illinois, College of Dentistry. Dr. Vold is a member of the American Dental Association and Illinois State Dental Society, as well as a recipient of numerous professional honors and awards.

What Are Dental Implants?

by Dr. Michael Vold

Dental implants are tiny screws, typically made of titanium, that are used as a replacement for missing tooth roots. Designed to fuse with bone, they provide the foundation for replacement teeth, including crowns, bridges and dentures.

The loss of a tooth can not only make smiling uncomfortable, it can also cause problems with chewing, and biting. Tooth loss also affects the jawbone. Without the tooth, the bone starts to shrink and will become brittle over time.

One of the primary reasons for tooth loss is tooth decay. Plaque builds up in the mouth when teeth aren’t brushed and flossed regularly or properly. The plaque contains sugars and acids that eat through tooth enamel, resulting in cavities. If the deterioration isn’t stopped, the damage can lead to the loss of teeth.

Tooth loss also occurs from periodontal disease, which causes gum tissue to recede. Gum disease in its early stages (gingivitis) can be treated. If the infection progresses, it can result in the loss of connective tissue and bone. More than 75% of U.S. adults currently have some form of periodontal disease.

Accidents involving major impacts, such as falls, sporting injuries and auto accidents, can cause tooth loss as well.

According to recent studies, most Americans will have lost an average of 12 teeth by age 50, and one out of every four people will have lost all of their teeth by the time they reach 60 years of age.

Dental implants are extremely durable and considered a permanent solution to the loss of a tooth. Because the implant fuses with the bone, you no longer have to be concerned about bone loss or gum recession.

The dental implant procedure involves several steps. First, any remaining pieces of the missing tooth are removed. A small hole is then drilled into your jaw where the screw will be placed. Once the screw has been inserted, a protective cover is placed on top. This part of the procedure is generally conducted with a local anesthetic. It can take from three to six months for the screw to anchor itself in to the jawbone, after which the post is attached to the implant. The last, restorative part of the process involves taking impressions to create a prosthetic tooth that will be attached to the implant.

Sometimes a jawbone isn’t thick or strong enough for the procedure, in which case bone grafting may be needed. The grafting process involves transplanting a bone piece from another part of your body to your jawbone. A bone graft can take several months to heal.

The success rate for both upper and lower jaw implants is extremely high. Once the entire process is completed, your implant teeth will feel and look natural.

If you have a missing tooth, your dentist can discuss all of your options in detail so that you can make the best possible decision regarding your teeth. Just remember that replacing a missing tooth as soon as possible is important in order to prevent gum and bone deterioration.